When dieting and rigorous exercise fail to produce results, there is one other option for those who think that all hope is lost: Weight loss surgery.

A lot of controversy continues to surround this procedure due to the risks involved. But serious complications are rare and even minor risks are not life threatening. One of the most common procedures is gastric bypass surgery where the stomach is stapled to form a smaller pouch which makes for a lesser intake of food. The results are transforming to the body and carry lasting health benefits.

The following are five facts about weight loss surgery you should know if you are considering this operation in the future.

Weight loss of over 50% is not uncommon

The results are dramatic and it is not uncommon for patients to lose over 50% of their extra weight following gastric bypass surgery. This type of operation should never be seen as a cure and healthier habits must be implemented. This means exercising on a regular basis and eating healthy meals.

Improvements for those with type 2 diabetes

Weight loss surgery helps normalize blood sugar levels for patients with diabetes. Because of the debilitating health effects of diabetes on the body, the procedure is often justified to prevent further complications.

The procedure is now safer than ever

There will always be some sort of risks involved for any type of medical operations. But with improvements in both equipment and procedures, weight loss surgery is less risky than before. Life threatening complications are extremely rare and only affect 1% – 5% of those who undergo the procedure.

Children of patients are less likely to be obese

New research has shown that children of parents who had a weight loss procedure performed were less likely to be obese themselves. Obesity tends to run in the family but this procedure can help to break that chain with lasting benefits for future generations.

Patients may experience “dumping syndrome”

One downside with weight loss surgery is the risk of what is known as “dumping syndrome”. This occurs when food passes too quickly through the intestine without being fully digested. This can cause feelings of nausea, diarrhea and even cramping.

The decision to undergo weight loss surgery is not an easy choice to make given the circumstances. Even after the procedure, patients need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Not everyone will have the same results but the health benefits are substantial.

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About the author: Lauren Wainwright, a blogger on a team of writers covering a variety of topics. Follow her on Twitter!